[The Personal Property Security Act, or Republic Act No. 11057, originated from House Bill No. 6907 under Committee Report No. 550 and Senate Bill. No. 1459 under Committee Report No. 86. For a background what spurred the enactment of Personal Property Security Act, it is helpful to look at the explanations given by the law’s sponsors, including the sponsorship speech of Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” A. Aquino IV on 22 May 2016. Here’s the full text:] Continue reading →

There seems to be a consensus that certain practices of some credit card collection agencies go beyond what is fair and reasonable, something which is officially recognized when no less than the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas issued the rules prohibiting certain unfair collection practices. For a change of perspective, put yourself into the shoes of credit card companies and ask yourself what would you do under the following circumstances: Continue reading →

A credit card is a wonderful tool that allows to transact without carrying wads of cash. Many people consciously avoid the “rule” to pay in cash whenever possible. Unless it’s cheaper to pay in cash, they use a credit card — but not any credit card. They prefer a credit card that accumulates rewards, free miles or free airline tickets. In other words, something is actually gained while using a credit card.

There are a number of good reasons in favor of having and using a credit card. It’s like owning a gun – it’s really a matter of how you use it. I know, not because I own a gun, but because I’ve handled an international credit card institution for years. Continue reading →

In an Administrative Order recently issued by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), stores are now prohibited from imposing any extra charges, on top of the cash price, for purchases of consumer goods or services using credit card, automated teller machine (ATM) cards and debit cards. In other words, stores cannot impose any extra charges on top of the cash price for purchases of goods or services paid via credit card. Violators face a penalty of imprisonment of up to six months. This is provided in Department Order No. 10 (series of 2006), which takes effect 15 days from publication. (See also: Credit cards – How to Stay Ahead of Runaway Credit Card Debt)